108. Telegram From the Embassy in Thailand
to the Commanding General of the U.S. Air Force in
Thailand (Evans)1

PoMil counselor conveyed to Air Chief Marshal Dawee this morning on urgent basis our plan
bring additional nine B–52’s into
U-Tapao to support maximum air effort in SEA. Dawee made
note of fact that this would bring total number of B–52’s to 51 and that five combat
lightning K–135’s would be removed. He asked how soon RTG approval was required. Counselor
did not reveal fact that aircraft were [Page 226]at this point already airborne but said he hoped
approval could be granted on the spot. Dawee did so, saying he would immediately inform
PriMin.

2.

While Dawee indicated full
support for currently ongoing operations to cut enemy lines in Laos
and expressed understanding for urgency of B–52 deployment, he clearly registered point that
RTG approval was required for
this deployment.

3.

Ambassador subsequently touched base on B–52 deployment with Prime Minister who had already
been informed by Dawee.